Your home is your sanctuary – a place of comfort you return to at the end of each day. You’ve worked hard for it and do your best to protect it wherever possible. But despite your best efforts, a home break-in can leave you feeling like a statistic.
In Canada, a home break-in occurs every 90 seconds, with 80% of break-ins occurring during daylight hours, according to Statistics Canada. It’s a devastating event for a homeowner and their family to navigate, leaving them with a sense of violation and feeling unsafe in their own home.
If you find yourself the victim of a home break-in, there are five essential steps to protect yourself and start the documentation process.
Remain Calm and Call the Police
If you suspect your home is broken into, notify the police as soon as possible and do not enter your home until it has been deemed safe for entry. If you have a smart home security system installed, it can offer an added layer of protection by alerting you to a break-in in real time. With professional monitoring, you can even request immediate police assistance if an intruder is detected.
If you are home while a break-in occurs, do not confront the intruder under any circumstances. If possible, secure yourself and your family in a safe location and discretely call the police. Remember, your safety should always be the top priority.
Identify the Signs of a Break-In
The average home break-in lasts an average of eight minutes, with some taking place in as little as 90 seconds. While the signs are usually obvious, intruders who are careful not to display signs of forced entry may make it more challenging to identify that a break-in has occurred.
Here is what to look for if you suspect your home is broken into:
- Identify signs of forced entry, like a smashed window, a broken door handle, or damage to other areas that allow entry to your home, such as the garage or side doors.
- Pay attention to changes in your home’s appearance, such as misplaced furniture, decor, or other items that suggest someone was searching for items of interest in a hurry.
- Check for open cabinets, particularly in sensitive areas like medicine cabinets, jewelry boxes, or closets.
- If you have pets, be aware of their behaviour; if they are secured in a room or outside unexpectedly, it could indicate a break-in.
- Look for footprints on various surfaces as most burglars won’t bother removing their shoes.
Document the Damage and Missing Items
Once the police have arrived and deemed your home safe for entry, it’s crucial to document damage and missing items. If you keep a log of your possessions (we recommend you have a list of high-value and items of sentimental significance) go through it item by item, noting what may or may not be missing or damaged. While a home security system can help identify taken items, you know your home and the items in your possession best.
Documenting this information serves a dual purpose – it assists the police in reporting the incident and is required for filing an insurance claim. Additionally, it may also aid in catching the burglar.
Contact Your Insurance Broker to File a Claim
Whether you have homeowner’s or tenant’s insurance, it’s important to contact your insurance broker as soon as possible to report the break-in, missing items, and damages to your home. If you are renting, it’s encouraged to contact your landlord, too.
As your broker, we’re here to guide you through the aftermath of a home break-in and ensure you feel supported and reassured. Your peace of mind is our top priority, and we’re just a call away to provide the right solutions to address your needs and concerns throughout the claims process.
Take Action to Prevent Future Break-Ins
A home break-in can leave you feeling anxious, and you may need time to regain your bearings. Once ready, here are steps you can take to reduce your risk of future break-ins:
Invest in a Home Security System: Consider installing a home security system that includes features, such as smart locks, motion-sensor lights, and security cameras. Visible security measures can act as a strong deterrent for potential intruders.
Secure Entry Points: Strengthen your home’s entry points by using high-quality, pick-resistant locks and deadbolts. Consider reinforcing doors and windows with security film for added protection.
Maintain Exterior Lighting: Ensure that your home’s exterior is well-lit. Motion-sensor lights and strategically placed lighting can help eliminate dark areas where burglars may attempt to gain entry unnoticed.
Establish Neighbourhood Watch: Connect with your neighbours to create a sense of community and look out for one another. Consider forming a neighbourhood watch group to monitor any suspicious activity and share safety tips.
Enhance Landscape Security: Keep your property’s landscaping well-maintained to eliminate potential hiding spots for intruders. Trim bushes and trees near windows and doors to increase visibility and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
These proactive measures can help significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and enhance the overall security of your property, providing you with the peace of mind you deserve in the face of uncertainty.
Experiencing a break-in can be incredibly unsettling, making it challenging to remain clear-headed in the aftermath. However, being prepared, especially if you already have a smart home security system installed, can bring a sense of calm in the days following the incident.
If you have any questions about home break-ins and your insurance coverage, don’t hesitate to reconnect with a Gifford Carr broker. We are here to provide guidance and ensure you have the proper protection to safeguard your home and belongings. Protecting what matters most is our priority, and we are committed to being your reliable partner in navigating these challenging situations.
